Aster oblongifolius 'October Skies' (October Skies Aster) — Clump-forming, Upright to bushy

Overview

Aster oblongifolius 'October Skies' is a clump-forming, upright to bushy perennial in the genus Symphyotrichum, part of the Asteraceae family, with deciduous foliage. Aster oblongifolius 'October Skies' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and loamy soils and neutral and slightly acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, wildflower gardens and pollinator gardens. It is native to eastern North America.

About

A compact, clump-forming perennial with narrow, oblong leaves and abundant lavender-blue daisy-like flowers with yellow centers in autumn.

About the genus

Symphyotrichum is a genus of over 100 species and naturally occurring hybrids of herbaceous annual and perennial plants in the composite family, Asteraceae, most which were formerly treated within the genus Aster. The majority are endemic to North America, but several also occur in the West Indies, Central and South America, as well as one species in eastern Eurasia. Several species have been introduced to Europe as garden specimens, most notably New England aster and New York aster.

Wikipedia contributors, "Symphyotrichum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Symphyotrichum

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Symphyotrichum

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: well-drained, loamy
Soil pH: neutral, slightly acidic
Soil moisture: moderate
Aspect: south, east
Exposure: sheltered to exposed
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Aster oblongifolius 'October Skies' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Habit: Clump-forming, Upright to bushy
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: borders, wildflower gardens, pollinator gardens
Native to: eastern North America

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Aster oblongifolius 'October Skies'

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade; drought tolerant once established.
Pruning: Cut back in early spring to encourage fresh growth.
Propagation: division, seed
Pest resistance: Aphids, Slugs, Snails
Disease resistance: Fusarium wilt, Powdery mildews, Leaf spots, Grey moulds

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Aster oblongifolius 'October Skies'?

Prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade; drought tolerant once established.

Where is the best place to plant Aster oblongifolius 'October Skies'?

Aster oblongifolius 'October Skies' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered to exposed positions.

What soil does Aster oblongifolius 'October Skies' need?

Aster oblongifolius 'October Skies' grows best in well-drained and loamy soil. It prefers neutral and slightly acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.